Ashton: I'm ready for 1st cap

West Ham striker Dean Ashton has told Steve McLaren that he is ready to win his first cap. The player was unfortunately injured last year when looking like he was set to win his first cap. However, the ex-Norwich man has scored 2 goals in 2 games and looks almost back to full fitness.

"I am 100 percent fit," said Ashton.

"I can last the games well and I feel strong and quick. As for sharpness, I'm improving day by day. It was a long time to be out so it does take time to get all that back but I am getting close.

"I just have to play well for West Ham and it's down to Steve McClaren who he picks and I would be delighted if I was one of the players chosen for next month's Euro 2008 qualifiers. I wouldn't be playing if I wasn't ready for an England call-up. I have been ready for a long time.

"It would be lovely to realise that dream of winning my first England cap but I have to be patient and hopefully it will come."